We at KC's believe in and try and uphold the traditions and behaviour that set our game apart from others. In this professional age this is becoming more difficult! The RFU have recognised this and a working party was set up to look at the issue. Their report stated:

Much of the behaviour and attitudes that have defined Rugby are highly regarded both within and outside the sport. However, during the last few years a trend has emerged of undesirable behaviour amongst many involved in the game at all levels. In particular, some parents watching their off spring at mini and midi level act and shout aggressively towards match officials, opposition parents and other children on the pitch; some spectators at elite matches display the sort of hostility associated with some of the poor behaviour of some sporting crowds; and, some players are beginning to adopt a less respectful attitude towards match officials who report an increase in referee abuse.

The Task Group has concluded that, in part, this is attributed to the positive growth in interest of the game across all areas of participation (playing, officiating, supporting and so on). However, it also reflects changes in society and, perhaps equally significantly, the fact that rugby used to be mainly taught in schools where good behaviour was part of core teaching in sport. That aspect of sportsmanship does not appear to have such prominence in teaching the game in clubs. Increased involvement in a less controlled environment than school introduces the influence of a far broader demographic, a large proportion of whom may have no prior experience of Rugby and its underpinning values.

As more people become involved and the game becomes increasingly accessible, it is vital that the limits of acceptable and unacceptable behaviour are clearly defined. There has always been an understanding that the ethos and culture of the game is of paramount importance and that, despite any adverse changes in society, those fundamental elements are to be preserved and protected for the future. Extensive anecdotal feedback has intimated that the advent of leagues (in 1987) and then professionalism (in 1995), together with the overall growth in the game away from the traditional roots in schools and universities may have had an adverse impact on the ethos and culture of the game in England.

We have a duty not only to the youth of KC's but to the game itself to uphold the behaviour that has made our game great!

The Qualities of our game include:

• Sportsmanship
• Sociability/friendship
• Health and fitness (physical and mental)
• Inclusivity
• Fair play
• Family atmosphere
• Respect for others
• Discipline
• Loyalty
• Magnanimity in defeat
• All shapes, sizes and ages are catered for
• Applauding opponents, referees and match officials